For The Parents

Description of the Program

In the daily classes of the Summer Session, you learn through observation and participation how to enhance your child's communication through the development of auditory/oral skills. About 24 families participate. You are involved with your children in the Preschool classroom for the first hour each day. In addition, during the day, you will have short breaks (about 10 minutes) between your classes. Through one-way mirrors, you will have chances to observe your child, the teacher, and your child's individual speech/language lesson.

Parent Support Groups

An important part of the Session is the opportunity for you to discuss your needs and feelings with other parents and a staff counselor. NOTE: All parent classes and meetings are conducted in English.

Your Goals

Each family has personal reasons for wanting to participate in a John Tracy Clinic Summer Session. Maybe some of the following are shared by you:

1. To learn more ways to help your deaf or hard of hearing child
2. To learn how to provide auditory/oral experiences for your child
3. To gain information and tools to facilitate your making future decisions regarding your child's education
4. To provide an opportunity for siblings to meet other siblings
5. To meet, discuss, and share with other parents

Tape Recorders

A small tape recorder (and a good supply of tapes!) come in handy. You can record that day's classes and discussions. From time to time during your Summer Session, you may need to leave the class to meet with a staff member or to take your child for testing. Your recording the lectures and discussions assures that you "don't miss a thing." At night, once your children are in bed, you have a chance to review the information and discuss it further with one another. In addition, the tapes can be very helpful to share with family members who are not able to attend the classes with you, or to review yourself upon your return home. Please be sure to mark your tape recorder ahead of time with your name so it can easily be identified. So many of them look alike!

Dress

Dress at all times for both parents and children is casual. For those who will be with us in June, the weather is typically cool, especially during the morning hours. Our weather in July can be warm, so summer clothing is appropriate. You will want to have a sweater or light jacket for the evenings.

LUNCH IS FREE TIME OFF CAMPUS AND WILL INCLUDE ALL CHILDREN EXCEPT YOUR PRESCHOOLER WITH HEARING LOSS.